Canadian cannabis activists, led by NORML Canada, are urging the federal government to reconsider and significantly increase the current limit of 10 milligrams of THC per ediblecannabis-infused edible products.

A petition, supported by Canada’s Competition Bureau and the Ontario Cannabis Store, aims to increase the THC limit to 100 milligrams per package so cannabis businesses can effectively compete in the illicit market.

The regulatory context of edibles in Canada

Canada’s journey to cannabis legalization began in 2018, with the retail sale of cannabis extracts and edibles being allowed in 2019. Strict regulations were imposed on the potency of edibles, capping the THC content at 10 milligrams per package. For comparison, California, one of the major regulated markets in the United States, allows up to 100 milligrams of THC per package. The call to review these limits stems from fears that restrictive regulations could steer consumers towards illegal operators.

Jennawae Cavion, executive director of NORML Canada, argues that the current THC limit on edibles creates a significant disadvantage for licensed companies. In an interview given to National PostJennawae Cavion points out that due to the low power of ediblesit is difficult for legal retailers to compete with illicit operators.

The petition to raise THC limits is gaining credibility with the support of reputable organizations such as the Competition Bureau of Canada and the Ontario Cannabis Store. These two entities have urged Health Canada to reconsider the current THC limits. The Competition Bureau specifically notes that it may not be necessary to restrict THC levels to meet the government’s objectives, emphasizing the need to maintain a competitive business environment.

Divergent opinions

A group of independent experts, created in 2022, recently published its first report. This report notes divergent opinions on the THC cap, with some speaking out against large-scale changes soon after the regulations were implemented. Critics argue that the 10-milligram limit was set to prevent overconsumption by inexperienced users.

Michael DeVillaer, an assistant professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience at McMaster University, is concerned about the potential public health risks associated with increasing THC limits. It urges the petitioners to provide market research demonstrating strong consumer demand for such products.

Patrick Weiler, the Liberal MP who sponsored the petition, emphasizes the need to meet consumer demand for higher THC limits. He believes increasing the THC cap will encourage consumers to choose regulated sources over the illicit market, while reducing excessive packaging and maintaining the success of Canada’s cannabis legalization.

In 2022, Canadian companies had already called on the government to increase the limit to 100 mg of THC per package, without success.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has received 132 applications to open medical cannabis dispensaries, with no word on how many of them will be approved or when. According to Austin-based television station KVUE, the Texas Department of Public Safety has not set a deadline for approving applications.

Open but restricted access to medical cannabis

“The department will only issue the number of licenses necessary to ensure reasonable statewide access and availability of low-THC cannabis to patients on the compassionate use registry,” the department said. DPS in January.

Businesses must meet a series of financial conditions to be approved, including having enough money to sustain the business for at least two years. These conditions are in addition to the application fees, which amount to more than $7,000.

The application period to operate under the Compassionate Use Program (CUP) of the state opened last January and was completed in April. The CUP was the result of Senate Bill 339 during the 84th session of the Texas Legislature in 2015.

Low-dose medical cannabis

Under the Texas Compassionate Program, DPS maintains an online registry of qualified physicians who can prescribe medical cannabis to patients with specific medical conditions.

In 2015, the legislature approved the Compassionate Use Act (compassionate use law), which makes low-THC medical cannabis legal for patients with refractory epilepsy.

In 2019, this law was extended to neurodegenerative diseases and terminal cancers. In 2021, it was again extended to all forms of cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder and the legal level of THC in medical products increased from 0.5 to 1%.

In 1970, researchers at the University of Oxford stumbled upon a cannabis compound that would remain shrouded in mystery for decades: tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).

THCV has acquired a mythical status among cannabis enthusiasts due to its rarity and the psychedelic effects attributed to it in high doses in certain African landrace varieties. However, recent developments in California’s legal cannabis market have removed the conundrum surrounding THCV and made it more accessible than ever.

The Changing THCV Landscape in California

With California being one of the largest US cannabis markets, it is not surprising to see that THCV is slowly infusing its market, with a notable increase in THCV-infused products. The federal legalization of hemp in 2018 played a critical role in expanding the availability of synthetic cannabinoids, including lab-produced THCV. But also because cannabis cultivation companies have made considerable progress in cultivating plants naturally rich in THCV, meeting the demand for this elusive compound.

Some brands like Kiva, known for its cannabis-infused chocolate bars, are now marketing different THCV-based products, in the form of gummies, called “Focus” and “Energy”. These products combine THCV with THC and other energetic ingredients such as B vitamins, L-theanine and caffeine.

The Science Behind THCV

Understanding the science behind THCV provides insight into its potential effects. Unlike THC, which partially activates a specific receptor associated with processes such as memory and pain, THCV appears to have the opposite effect, deactivating that receptor. This could explain the reported “anti-high” effects, such as increased alertness and reduced hunger. Limited clinical trials suggest that THCV may reduce short-term memory loss and cause “energetic” feelings.

On the purely medical side, THCV raises intriguing possibilities. Studies in rodents indicate that THCV can reduce appetite, body weight, and resting glucose levels, suggesting its potential in treating metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Although promising, it is essential to emphasize that conclusive results on the effects of THCV in humans are lacking due to the paucity of in-depth studies.

Despite its potential benefits, THCV comes with a hefty price tag, ten times higher than conventional THC. Nicole Daryanani, sales manager at Kiva, acknowledges the high cost but points out that a steady supply from Phylos Bioscience, an Oregon-based breeding company, has contributed to the influx of THCV products into California.

Phylos Bioscience is a key player in the THCV market, breeding cannabis plants with an unprecedented potency of 20% THCV. Company CEO Ralph Risch says the focus is on energizing and uplifting benefits, to meet the needs of consumers who are looking for more than just a traditional “high.” Phylos is even financing a clinical trial in California to unravel the mysteries of the effects of THCV on humans, the results of which are expected in early 2024.

Cannabis, often associated with contemporary counterculture, has a long and complex history, deeply rooted in various societies. Recent research in Milan, Italy, sheds new light on the historical use of cannabis by examining skeletal remains from a 17th-century cemetery.

This study led by scientists at the University of Milan uncovers evidence of the recreational use of cannabis.

Historical context and papal ban

The historical use of cannabis is well documented, with the Greek historian Herodotus mentioning its psychotropic effects in 440 BC. Medieval medical records in Europe also reveal widespread medicinal applications of cannabis, treating conditions ranging from gout to labor pains.

In 1484, Pope Innocent VIII issued a decree calling cannabis an “unholy sacrament,” beginning a centuries-long association with paganism and a rebellion against the Church.

Researchers, led by biologist Gaia Giordano, carried out a groundbreaking study on femurs from the Ca’ Granda crypt in Milan, discovering traces of THC and CBD. This is the first time cannabis has been detected in human bones, providing unique insight into historical cannabis use. These results challenge the prevailing idea that cannabis disappeared from the historical record after the papal ban.

The study results indicate that cannabis was likely used recreationally in Milan in the 17th century, as medical records from the Ospedale Maggiore, the city’s main hospital for the poor, did not include cannabis among medicinal plants.

Archaeotoxicologist Domenico di Candia, who led the study, suggests that harsh conditions in 17th-century Milan, characterized by famine, disease and poverty, may have contributed to the recreational use of cannabis. The plant could have been added to foods, such as cakes and herbal teas, to relieve the harsh realities of life at that time.

Historical hemp production in Italy

Italy’s historical role as a major hemp producer adds another layer to the findings. Hemp was widely used in various industries, including ropes, textiles and paper. Researchers, including Marco Perduca, a former Italian senator, say the popularity of hemp in Italian history makes it likely that cannabis was also used for its psychoactive effects.

This finding raises questions about the social shame associated with cannabis use, which still persists today.

Perduca suggests that the stigma is rooted in the perception of cannabis as a substance that defies obedience, particularly to the Catholic Church, which is historically a powerful institution in Italy. Despite the current legalization of medical cannabis in Italy, debates over its wider acceptance, including the inclusion of CBD in the narcotics schedules, continue.

At the end of October, the Japanese government approved several amendments to its cannabis control law:

1. Cannabis for medical purposes: Epidiolex will be integrated into the Japanese medical system and made available to children who need it. Sativex and Marinol are unlikely to advance as they contain THC, with the Japanese government still very much against THC

2. Change in regulation of cannabinoids other than THC: Japanese regulations regarding cannabinoids will shift from “parts-based” regulations of the plant, which only allowed products/ingredients from the stem and the seed has regulation based on ingredients. The conclusion is that CBD extracted from the flower, leaves or resin can be imported into Japan legally, as long as the product does not contain any THC. Delta-8 / Delta-9 / HHC / THCV and analogues will remain illegal.

3. Use and crime: Currently, Japanese law states that “possession” and “cultivation” of cannabis are crimes. Usage is not. With the new proposal, in theory, a urine test could prove cannabis “use.” The practical application of this law could, however, be different from what the initial text intends.

4. Promotion of hemp cultivation in Japan: The Japanese government is willing to establish a framework to promote hemp cultivation in Japan. The final products will most likely be seeds/fiber.

What impacts will these amendments have?

If the CBD trade is widespread in Japan, the restrictions around the total absence of THC strongly constrain the market, which does not escape synthetic neocannabinoids. With the latest decisions by the Japanese government, the market for CBD and natural cannabinoids is expected to grow significantly. Major retailers, media and ancillary industries will accept CBD products.

Japan will, however, be much stricter with regard to D8/D9/THC analogues and less with CBD.

The return to favor of hemp in Japan

If the Japanese government takes measures for the Japanese hemp industry, the hemp growers did not wait for it, as reported by The Japan News.

Tochigi Prefecture in Japan, particularly known for hemp cultivation, has seen a significant decline in the number of hemp farmers, from a peak of 6,000 to just 12 today. Most of the remaining farmers are between 60 and 70 years old.

Yoshinori Omori, a 44-year-old hemp farmer from a family that has been growing hemp for several generations, expressed concern about the potential disappearance of hemp farmers in Japan, speaking to The Japan News. To address this issue, Omori is working to create new hemp products to attract younger generations to the industry, with the aim of expanding the use of hemp in various applications such as paper, building materials and packaging.

Meanwhile, in Mie Prefecture, the town of Meiwa has expressed interest in becoming a hemp cultivation center. Although it delivered hemp to the local Ise Jingu Shrine in the past, the town no longer has hemp farmers. Meiwa Municipal Council, Mie University and local farmers therefore collaborated on a hemp cultivation project, planting hemp on a 6,000 square meter plot.

Shingo Matsumoto, an executive at agricultural company Iseasa, led the project, emphasizing that hemp was a Japanese tradition.

Hitoshi Nitta, professor at Kogakkan University, highlighted the importance of the government’s efforts to preserve the history of hemp in the country by disseminating accurate knowledge and eliminating prejudices and misunderstandings surrounding cultivated hemp by licensees.

British American Tobacco (BAT) recently announced a substantial investment of nearly $125 million in Canadian cannabis producer Organigram, doubling its stake which previously stood at 19.9%.

The investment, subject to regulatory and shareholder approval, is expected to drive Organigram’s global expansion and take advantage of the evolving legal recreational cannabis landscape.

An expanded partnership and strategic investment pool

BAT’s journey with Organigram began in 2021 when it invested $220 million in the Canadian cannabis company. Subsequently, BAT added $6.35 million in 2022. Today, with the latest injection of $125 million, BAT has 45% of the company’s shares and 30% of the voting rights.

Organigram plans to allocate the majority of the investment, approximately $83.1 million, to the creation of a strategic investment fund called Jupiter. This pool is designed to target emerging opportunities in cannabis globally, in line with Organigram’s geographic expansion goal. Beena Goldenberg, CEO of Organigram, highlighted the importance of this investment in a press release, stating that it “strengthens an already strong balance sheet” and accelerates the company’s growth plans.

Market conditions and strategic priority

BAT’s aggressive approach to investing aligns with favorable market conditions. Global cannabis legalization trends, some undervalued cannabis companies, and the search for strategic investors create a favorable environment for BAT’s investment strategy to continue.

Organigram’s strategic investment pool, Jupiter, is positioned to take advantage of these conditions, providing the company with the capital necessary to build a global foundation amid substantial growth in the legal recreational cannabis market.

BAT’s plan and Organigram’s growth

BAT’s investment consists of subscribing for 38.7 million shares at a price of 3.2203 Canadian dollars per share, divided into three tranches. Upon closing of the first tranche, BAT will be able to appoint up to 30% of the members of Organigram’s board of directors. This level of influence highlights the depth of the strategic partnership between the two companies.

Despite concerns raised in Organigram’s quarterly report, which cited challenges such as declining cannabis flower prices and regulatory restrictions on certain products, the company’s recreational net income for the nine months ending 31 May 2023 increased by $8 million compared to the same period of the previous year.

International sales also nearly doubled from $9.5 million in 2022 to $18.4 million in fiscal 2023.

Since the initial investment in 2021, BAT and Organigram have collaborated on product development, including beverages, new vape pen formulations, flavor innovations and packaging solutions, all currently in final stages of development .

In September 2022, BAT also obtained a non-controlling minority stake in German cannabis company Sanity Group and owns 19.9% ​​of Charlotte’s Web.

As the end-of-year holidays approach, Maison Beryola unveils its pioneering creation, the very first hemp caviar. Founded in 2021 in the picturesque landscapes of Nouvelle Aquitaine, Maison Beryola is a company that merges historic hemp agriculture and cutting-edge technologies to create new products that respect the environment and health.

The creation of Maison Beryola started from a simple observation: most CBD-based products available on the market often lack diversity and come from beyond French borders. Co-founded by scientist Jérôme Bibette and his daughter Jeanne Bibette, the company was born from their shared vision of cultivating the original lands in the Landes, near Bordeaux. Their goal was to innovate a unique product, building on Mr. Bibette’s revolutionary inventions.

CBD pearls from Maison Beryola

The different CBD caviars from Maison Beryola

Both a flower grower on Ecocert certified land in the Hautes Landes and an extractor of essences, Maison Beryola ensures excellence throughout the production process, from seed to pearl.

French and organic hemp caviar, the result of two years of intensive research and development, is available for pre-order for the end-of-year holidays. This new range of pearls, called “Hemp Caviar”, offers three distinct blends of gourmet oils combined with their organic hemp flower extracts: one slightly sweet, the other more robust and pure hemp for the most passionate. .

Order your caviar in advance from November to offer it or enjoy it with your loved ones by clicking on this link.

Beryola House Pearls

Maison Beryola’s aspirations, however, go beyond the field of gastronomy. The company is actively developing new products focused on the documented benefits of cannabinoids, whether presented in beverages or orally, while respecting its core values ​​of taste and quality.

Maison Beryola’s journey illustrates a harmonious blend of innovation, tradition and sustainability, paving the way for a new era of organic hemp products in France. The introduction of his hemp caviar not only marks a culinary milestone, but also a testament to his dedication to eco-friendly and locally sourced creations, a celebration of heritage and innovation in a one and the same tasty pearl.

As hearings in parliamentary committees continue, the text legalizing cannabis in Germany is expected to return to the plenary assembly for a second and third reading on November 16, when lawmakers will vote on the formal adoption of the law.

The measure received a first reading in the Bundestag, Germany’s federal parliament, last month.

What does the legalization of cannabis mean in Germany?

The legalization measure, presented by Health Minister Karl Lauterbach, would allow adult Germans to legally possess cannabis and cultivate a maximum of three plants for personal use. It would also create Cannabis Clubs that could cultivate and distribute cannabis to their members, with purchase limits for those over the age of 21 of 25 grams of cannabis per day – up to a total of 50 grams per month. People aged 18 to 21 would be subject to a lower monthly limit of 30 grams.

German authorities are planning a second phase of legalization that would launch a pilot program for the regulated commercial sale of cannabis. There will therefore be, initially, no retail sales as exists in the United States, Uruguay, Thailand or Canada.

“With this bill from the federal government, we can help improve health protection, strengthen education and prevention related to cannabis and curb the illegal cannabis market while strengthening the protection of children and young people,” explained Kirsten Kappert-Gonther, a member of the Green party, during a committee meeting last week.

“The federal government says that current developments show that cannabis consumption, despite existing prohibition rules, is increasing, especially among young people,” said Ms Kappert-Gonther. “Cannabis purchased on the black market is often associated with a higher health risk because the THC content is unknown to those who consume it and it contains toxic impurities and synthetic cannabinoids which can be very dangerous and whose effects are not known. not valued by those who consume them. »

Is the legalization of cannabis in Germany popular?

The legalization of cannabis in Germany is supported and supported by the government and a majority of the political spectrum.

However, a number of associations have spoken out against the legalization of cannabis in Germany, including the Federal Medical Association, the German Association of Judges and police and medical organizations. They are among three dozen institutions and individuals who submitted statements ahead of last Monday’s hearing.

The German Association of Judges, for example, said in written testimony that “the assessment underlying the project that it would significantly reduce the burden on the judicial system is incorrect”, because the legalization proposal still provides for offenses for the sale of cannabis, international importation and other activities. »

The German Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine argued that if the proposed reform did not allow minors to have access to cannabis, it was not clear whether the protective measures were sufficiently enforceable to prevent young people’s access.

The Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists, for its part, was also skeptical. The group called for strong protections for young people and said it was unclear whether decriminalization would address stigma enough for people with substance use disorders to be able to apply for help sooner.

Another motion, from the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, says lawmakers should instead focus on medical cannabis, which it says “enjoys a good reputation among the population.” The party argues that the Bundestag should abandon legalization of adult use and instead draft a new law to integrate medical cannabis into a national health care law, which would better take into account the “benefits and risks in an unlimited manner” and reduce costs for patients.

The Portuguese medical cannabis industry has seen a sharp increase in production and export in recent years.

Latest figures from the country’s health authority, Infarmed, revealed that in the first half of this year, Portugal exported around 5,438 kilograms of medical cannabis. If it maintains the pace, Portugal could surpass its record from last year, which was 9,271 kilograms.

Growth but slowdown

Although the figures depict substantial growth, it is increasing less quickly than in previous years. In 2020, the country exported 4,850 kilograms. In 2021, this figure increased to 5,694 kilograms, showing a gradual increase in medical cannabis export volumes.

The main recipients of Portuguese medical cannabis exports this year are Germany, which comes first with 1,678 kilograms, followed closely by Poland, which received 1,589 kilograms. Australia received 955 kilograms.

Israel, which was previously a significant importer from Portugal, did not import cannabis from that country in 2023 and preferred Canada with 20,907 kilograms for the 2022-23 fiscal year. Canada is globally recognized as a major exporter of medical cannabis flowers, with a nearly 50% increase in exports from April 2022 to March 2023, totaling 59,986 kilograms.

Amidst this growth, Portugal maintains a strong position to emerge as a major producer of medical cannabis on a European and global scale.

Fertile soil in Portugal

Overall, Infarmed has licensed 42 companies for medical cannabis activities, 8 more than in 2022. In addition, 150 additional entities are in the licensing process, which suggests a considerable increase in number of companies involved in the Portuguese cannabis sector in the country in the short term. This year alone, Infarmed has granted 76 new licenses, cumulative within the same company for each specific activity.

The number of authorizations granted by Infarmed for the cultivation, manufacturing, import, export and distribution of cannabis demonstrates the dynamics of the market. Currently, 24 companies have cultivation licenses, while 15 are involved in the manufacturing and preparation of substances. 12 have licenses for wholesale trade and 32 are authorized to import and export. Impressively, 17 of these companies have achieved EU GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certification.

Despite substantial export volumes, medical cannabis remains very inaccessible in Portugal. Only 524 packets of the only substance available, Tilray Flor Seca with 18% THC, were prescribed to Portuguese patients.